The National Catholic Rural Life Conference provides many important resources for reflection upon rural life and agriculture. Their statement on stewardship is a helpful summary: "All of Creation is sacred and we are called to serve as
faithful stewards. Creation has an integrity and inherent value beyond its
usefulness to human beings. Human beings are to be responsible stewards of
creation: In this activity we work in harmony with God as co-creators. The web
of life is one. The way we treat animals carries moral significance. We cannot
casually inflict pain on them; their modes of living deserve study and
appreciation. Animal welfare should be a moral concern."